As we've now entered the second month of 2025, we caught up with founders Ivan Hansen and Hans Henrik Sørensen of House of Finn Juhl to discuss their plans for this year and to reflect on 2024. 'In recent years, we've made significant investments in expanding our Danish production, the largest of which was in 2022, when we acquired a family-owned furniture factory in Vejen, Denmark. This factory, which has been in operation for over 100 years, now complements our headquarters and production site in Ringkøbing on the west coast of Denmark. Together, these facilities enable us to maintain the majority of our production local, while continuously nurturing the development of expertise at our workshops to ensure that our craftspeople can produce an even greater number of Finn Juhl's designs in the future.'
'This expansion has been a major commitment that continued into 2024. Adapting the Vejen workshop to produce Finn Juhl's designs required substantial investment in new machinery, as well as a close collaboration with our craftspeople to develop and refine the production processes for each specific piece. While challenging, we can feel that these efforts have also had a hugely positive impact on our brand.'
Founders Ivan Hansen (left) and Hans Henrik Sørensen (right).
'We've also devoted considerable time to documenting and showcasing how we continue to honour Finn Juhl's legacy. In a time when many furniture companies have relocated their production to countries with low-cost labour, and the industry is driven by fast, seasonal trends with frequent new collections, we have consciously chosen a different path. Our focus on lasting designs, quality and traditional craftsmanship sets us apart. By staying true to our core values, we've strengthened our brand identity while preserving the lasting relevance of Finn Juhl's iconic designs.'
What would you say was the biggest challenge for the industry in 2024?
'One of the biggest challenges for the industry has been a sense of saturation among consumers in the local market, particularly following the pandemic years when many invested heavily in their homes and interiors. We've also observed a trend toward fast-changing, seasonal products. This has only strengthened our commitment to Finn Juhl's legacy of timeless design, quality, and craftsmanship—values we have always upheld. We believe this is precisely why we have not experienced a decline in interest in Finn Juhl, as our commitment has clearly resonated with those who appreciate lasting value.'
Recent project at Formel B.
House of Finn Juhl is doing well in the contract market right now. Is that a trend you're recognising, restaurants using more high-end furniture?
'Absolutely. In the past, exclusive furniture like ours was less common in such projects, but now we're seeing that high-end hotels and Michelin-starred restaurants are seeking furniture that aligns with the care and thoughtfulness behind their overall concept. Every detail in these spaces is carefully curated and designed with intention, and they want their furniture to reflect that same level of thoughtfulness and quality.'
Can you share some of your recent restaurant-projects?
'Firstly, Formel B, a Michelin-starred restaurant, has long been a cornerstone of the Danish gastronomic scene. Located in the vibrant Copenhagen area between Vesterbro and Frederiksberg, this restaurant is filled with classic Finn Juhl pieces such as the Egyptian Chair and the 46 Armchair.
Restaurant Uformel is the free-spirited little brother of formel B. The interior strikes a balance between elegance and informality, featuring Finn Juhl's simple and comfortable Reading Chair.'
Left: restaurant Uformel. Right: wine bar Apéro.
'In the heart of central Copenhagen, Apéro occupies a historic 290-year-old building and offers a sophisticated setting for wine and cocktails. The interior features an impressive selection of some of Finn Juhl's most exclusive pieces, including the Whisky Chair, the Butterfly Table, the 46 Armchair, and the48 Chair, to name just a few.
Lastly, located within the Galleria Department Store in Seoul, Atelier Pond offers an inviting space for guests to indulge in delicious pastries. Designed by Elephant Design Studio, the café features Finn Juhl's classic 108 Chair and versatile Reading Chair.'
What are your plans for 2025?
'In 2025, we plan to further emphasise what makes Finn Juhl's designs so special. We'll continue to showcase how his furniture is made to last—how it ages gracefully over time, with materials that develop a beautiful patina. Our goal is to demonstrate that these pieces aren't just for the now, but are made to be cherished for generations to come.
We are also seeing an increasing interest from new markets where there hasn't traditionally been much enthusiasm for Danish design. There is now a particular fascination with the craftsmanship and heritage that our collection embodies. Specifically, later this month, we will enter the Indian market in Mumbai, collaborating with local partners to introduce Finn Juhl's designs. It's an exciting new chapter for us as we venture into this entirely new market.'
Recent project at Atelier Pond.
More information:
House of Finn Juhl
[email protected]
www.finnjuhl.com
Denmark